Best Men's Athletic Shorts Under $200 (2026)
We selected shorts under $200 using a value score based on fabric, fit (inseam and waistband), pocket functionality, and user-reported durability
The Verdict
- Best Overall: NORTHYARD Men's athletic running shorts — Best for runners: quick-dry breathable fabric designed to keep you cool during sweaty workouts
- Best Value: Maamgic Mens Athletic Shorts 5.5" with pockets — Best for pocketed utility: built with practical pockets and a gym-ready cut for everyday training
This roundup covers men's athletic shorts priced under $200, chosen for functional value across fit, fabric, and practical features. Picks were ranked by a value score that weights material performance, pocket design, and customer feedback on fit and durability
Top Picks
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1
Best Overall NORTHYARD Men's athletic running shorts
Best for runners: quick-dry breathable fabric designed to keep you cool during sweaty workouts
Lightweight, breathable shorts with quick-drying fabric and built-in drawstring for a secure fit. Customers note quality, comfort, and lightweight feel, with a zippered back pocket for storage
- quick-dry fabric
- adjustable fit
- zippered pocket
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2
Best Value Maamgic Mens Athletic Shorts 5.5" with pockets
Best for pocketed utility: built with practical pockets and a gym-ready cut for everyday training
Soft, breathable athletic shorts with a 5.5" inseam and elastic waistband. Moisture-wicking terry fabric, with two side pockets and a back Velcro pocket for essentials. Customers praise comfort, fit, and material quality
- 5.5" inseam for versatile length
- high cotton content for comfort
- multiple pockets for storage
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3
Maamgic men's athletic shorts, 5.5" inseam, elastic waist
Best for adjustable comfort: elastic waist construction provides flexible fit for varied activities
Soft, breathable shorts with moisture-wicking terry fabric and an elastic encased waistband. Comfortable fit with deep side pockets and a back velcro pocket, suitable for workouts and daily wear. Customers note comfortable, well-fitting cut and quality material
- elastic waistband with secure fit
- breathable, soft material blend
- multiple pockets for storage
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4
Maamgic men's athletic shorts, 5.5-inch inseam, elastic waist
Best for light training: a short inseam and elastic waist that suit fast-paced gym sessions
Lightweight 5.5" shorts with breathable terry fabric, moisture-wicking and flexible material. Comfortable fit with a wide elastic waistband and multiple pockets for essentials
- 5.5" inseam for balanced length
- multiple pockets including back Velcro
- soft, breathable fabric
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5
Maamgic athletic gym shorts 5.5" inseam
Best budget gym short: minimalist 5.5" cut that focuses on mobility and basic pocket function
Comfortable athletic shorts with a 5.5" inseam, lightweight terry fabric, and breathable design. Customers cite comfortable fit and functional pockets as key benefits
- breathable terry fabric
- functional pockets
- adjustable waist feel
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6
Maamgic Men’s Athletic Shorts, 5.5" Inseam
Best cotton-poly option: blended fabric balances breathability with a softer hand for all-day wear
Soft, breathable athletic shorts with an 80/20 cotton-poly blend, moisture-wicking terry fabric, and a secure waistband. Customers praise comfortable fit and functional pockets
- comfortable wide waistband
- functional pockets with zippers
- high-cotton content and thick feel
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7
Maamgic Men's Athletic Shorts 5.5" Inseam
Best multi-use pick: pocketed design and an athletic cut that transitions from gym to errands
Lightweight, breathable athletic shorts with an elastic waistband and multiple pockets. Comfortable fit with high-cotton content and moisture-wicking terry fabric; includes deep side pockets and a back velcro pocket for essentials
- 5.5" inseam for balanced coverage
- two deep side pockets + back velcro pocket
- 80% cotton 20% polyester for comfort
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8
Maamgic Men's Athletic Shorts 5.5" Inseam with Pockets
Best for everyday workouts: cotton-polyester blend with pockets that handle essentials securely
Lightweight, breathable athletic shorts with an elastic waistband and multiple pockets. Customers praise comfort, fit, and material quality
- comfortable fit with wide waistband
- multiple pockets including back velcro
- high cotton content for softness
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9
Maamgic Mens Athletic Gym Shorts 5.5" Waistband Pocket Jogger
Best for joggers: waistband pocket and jogger styling that keep small items secure while running
Soft, breathable shorts with moisture-wicking terry fabric and a flexible 5.5" inseam. Customers praise comfort, fit, and roomy pockets
- comfortable fit with wide waistband
- multi-pocket design
- breathable, lightweight material
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10
Maamgic Mens Athletic Shorts 5.5" Elastic Waist Jogger
Best for classic fit: elastic waist and standard athletic proportions that suit general training needs
Soft, breathable athletic shorts with an elastic incased waistband, 5.5" inseam, and multiple pockets. Customers praise comfort, fit, and material quality
- elastic waistband with deep pockets
- 5.5" inseam length
- soft 80/20 cotton-poly fabric